BEL ALTON, Md. — The Commissioners of Charles County and the Historical Society of Charles County’s Friends of Rich Hill have signed a new agreement to work together in preserving and enhancing Historic Rich Hill Farm in Bel Alton. This memorandum of understanding (MOU) formalizes their partnership and replaces any previous agreements.
A Look at Rich Hill’s History
Rich Hill Farm is a 2.43-acre property featuring a historic home built in 1729 by Dr. Gustavus Brown. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its historical significance. One of its most notable moments in history came in April 1865, when John Wilkes Booth and David Herold stopped at the home while fleeing after the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. The then-owner, Samuel Cox, provided assistance to Booth and Herold as they evaded authorities.
Recognizing the site’s importance, the Friends of Rich Hill was established in 2015 to provide volunteer and financial support for its restoration and preservation.
What the Agreement Means
This new agreement sets clear guidelines on how the county government and Friends of Rich Hill will collaborate. Some key points include:
Shared responsibilities: Both groups will coordinate efforts on site plans, budgets, events and programs while ensuring financial transparency.
County’s role: The commissioners will support the Friends by allowing the use of the site’s name, assigning a liaison, providing maintenance assistance, marketing support and writing grant support letters. They will also offer facilities without rental fees.
Friends’ role: The Friends of Rich Hill must maintain nonprofit compliance, obtain necessary permits and insurance, collaborate on site improvements, seek funding opportunities, provide volunteer staffing and follow historic preservation guidelines.
Legal protections: The Friends agree to protect the county from legal claims related to their activities. The agreement does not make either party an agent of the other, and any enforcement rights remain intact.
The MOU will last for five years and can be renewed in five-year increments. Any changes must be agreed upon in writing, and either party may end the agreement with 30 days’ written notice.
The full agreement can be viewed here.
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